"The first games are always hard. This is the first day. It is a lesson for us to try to become better and better for the rest of the tournament."

Reinder NUMMERDOR (NED) - captain

On the victory against Russia:

"This is a very important victory for us. It was not easy but the team spirit helped. It was a great chance for a first victory. The Russian team served better, but the team spirit proved to be the key for our win."

Gennady SHIPULIN (RUS) - head coach

On the match:

"It was the first game and it was quite difficult. We wanted to win. The players that I expected to play well, didn't. We are going to analyse the match so that we do better in the rest of matches."

On whether there are going to be any changes in the make up of the Russian team:

"We are going to analyse today's match and we shall see whether any changes are necessary."

Bert GOEDKOOP (NED) - head coach

On the match:

"We are very happy. It was a dream start. Russia is a very good team and wins nine out of 10 matches. Today, all players gave their best; they did everything they had to do. They did quite well today."